Welcome to the Shetland Sheep Society web pages
We hope you find the material of interest and if you are not already a member that it convinces you to take up keeping this marvellous breed.
The Shetland Sheep Society evolved from the Shetland Sheep Breeders' Group which was formed in 1985 when, after 11 years in the care of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, appreciation of the Shetland sheep had grown such that the breed had achieved 'minority' status on the UK mainland.
The Shetland is classed as a Primitive or 'unimproved' sheep; however, its versatility in providing tasty sweet meat, highest quality fine fleece, ease of handling and attractive appearance have made it a popular choice for a whole range of sheep keepers.
Shetland sheep are very hardy, good mothers, easy lambers and produce plenty of milk. When crossed with an early maturing terminal sire the lambs are a good fit for the commercial market and dress out well.
As well as prospering on all types of grassland, being 'browsers' rather than just 'grazers', they have also been found highly useful in maintaining conservation areas such as ancient heathland.
On this site you will find information about the breed and details of the Shetland Sheep Society and the benefits of membership. Members of the Society can also use the site to access the Society's on-line flockbook.
